Umatilla County Evacuates Residents Near Hagen Fire Amid PDS Red Flag Warning

Umatilla County officials have issued a Level 3 “GO NOW” evacuation order for residents in the immediate vicinity of the Hagen Fire, urging them to leave immediately before the forecasted extreme fire‑weather conditions arrive. A Level 2 “BE SET” alert remains in effect for surrounding areas, advising residents to be prepared to evacuate at short notice.

The National Weather Service has issued a rare Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Red Flag Warning for Saturday, Aug. 1, indicating wind speeds and extremely dry fuels that could cause rapid fire growth, long‑range spotting, and unpredictable fire behavior. The warning, in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., exceeds the severity of routine Red Flag warnings and signals a top‑tier fire threat.

County authorities warned that strong winds may make roads impassable and limit emergency‑crew access, and they urged the public to avoid non‑essential travel on Highway 204 through the Tollgate, Spout Springs, and Langdon Lake areas. Vulnerable residents, including older adults and those with mobility challenges, were specifically advised to evacuate early.